Emerging
Jun 23, 2026 Major2
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Ronaldo Makes World Cup History as Portugal Defeats Uzbekistan 2-0
Cristiano Ronaldo made World Cup history on June 23, 2026, by scoring his first goal of the tournament and becoming the first player to score in six World Cup campaigns. Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 2-0 in their Group K match, with Nuno Mendes adding a second goal.
Quick Facts
Who
Cristiano Ronaldo
What
Ronaldo scored his first goal of the 2026 World Cup
When
June 23, 2026
Where
Group K match
- Ronaldo scored his first goal of the 2026 World Cup
- Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cup tournaments
- Portugal defeated Uzbekistan 2-0
- Nuno Mendes scored a free kick goal
- Ganiev's goal was disallowed for a foul in the buildup
Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a historic milestone on June 23, 2026, when he scored his first goal of the FIFA World Cup, becoming the first player ever to score in six different World Cup tournaments. The 41-year-old Portuguese star broke the deadlock with a close-range finish in Portugal's Group K match against Uzbekistan, leading Portugal to a 2-0 victory. Nuno Mendes doubled Portugal's advantage with a free kick that many observers expected Ronaldo would take.
Uzbekistan, making their World Cup debut, demonstrated competitive spirit throughout the match despite the final scoreline. Azizjon Ganiev appeared to have pulled one back with a stunning strike, but the goal was disallowed for a foul in the buildup. The result reflected Portugal's dominance in Group K, though Uzbekistan's spirited performance—their first World Cup appearance—suggested they will not be easily dismissed in their remaining group matches.
Ronaldo's goal sparked celebrations both on the pitch and among football fans globally, with Portugal's manager Roberto Martínez celebrating the milestone. The victory positions Portugal well in their bid to advance from the group stage, while Uzbekistan faces an uphill battle to progress despite a promising debut that included creating opportunities and demonstrating improved confidence in the second half.
Why This Matters
Ronaldo's achievement represents an unprecedented milestone in football history, cementing his legacy as one of sport's greatest competitors across multiple generations. For Portugal, the victory provides crucial momentum in their World Cup campaign, while Uzbekistan's competitive debut—despite the loss—signals their emergence as a credible World Cup nation. This moment matters for fans globally as it showcases how elite athletes can sustain peak performance into their fifth decade.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 23, 2026
WirePortugal vs Uzbekistan Group K match held
Jun 23, 2026
WireNuno Mendes scores free kick goal to double Portugal's lead
Jun 23, 2026
WireAzizjon Ganiev's goal disallowed for foul in buildup
Jun 23, 2026
WirePortugal defeats Uzbekistan 2-0
Jun 23, 2026
WireCristiano Ronaldo scores his first goal of the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first player to score in six World Cup tournaments